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Last Name Tarita

What is the origin of the last name Tarita?

The last name "Tarita" is of Tahitian origin. It is derived from the Tahitian word "tarita," which means "small and fast." It is possible that individuals with this last name have ancestors who were known for being nimble or quick in some way.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Tarita

The meaning and origin of the last name Tarita

The surname Tarita is of Italian origin and derives from the personal name Tullia, a feminine form of the Roman family name Tullius, meaning "brought up in a house of abundance." It is believed that the name Tarita could have been given to a descendant of someone named Tullia or a person associated with the Tullius family. This surname has variations in different regions like Taritta or Taritte. Over time, the surname Tarita has spread to various countries around the world, including the United States, where it is believed to have been brought by Italian immigrants. Today, individuals with the surname Tarita can be found in different parts of the world, each with their unique family history and story.

Geographical distribution of the last name Tarita

The last name Tarita is most commonly found in the island nation of French Polynesia, particularly in the Society Islands where it originated. The name is believed to have Tahitian roots and is quite rare outside of this region. In French Polynesia, the name is associated with the royal family of the Pomare dynasty, specifically with Princess Tarita Teriipia who was the wife of Marlon Brando. Due to its unique origin and history, the last name Tarita is not widely spread across the globe. However, with the globalization of society and international migration, it is possible to find individuals with the last name Tarita in other parts of the world, especially in countries with significant ties to French Polynesia such as France and the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Tarita

The last name Tarita can vary in spelling and pronunciation depending on the individual's origin or preference. Some common variations include Tarita, Taritta, Tarite, and Territa. It is important to note that surnames can often be misspelled or changed over time due to clerical errors or personal choice. In some cases, the last name might also be spelled with an added letter or accent mark, such as Tárita or Taríta. Ultimately, the spelling of Tarita can differ based on the cultural background or genealogical roots of the individual, leading to a variety of possible variations for this particular surname.

Famous people with the last name Tarita

The most famous person with the last name Tarita is probably Marlon Brando's third wife, Tarita Teriipaia. Tarita was a Tahitian actress and the couple met while filming the 1962 movie "Mutiny on the Bounty" in which she played the role of Maimiti. Despite their significant age difference and cultural barriers, the two fell in love and were married for several years before eventually divorcing. Tarita's marriage to Marlon Brando elevated her status in Hollywood and she became a well-known figure in the entertainment industry. Her relationship with one of the most iconic actors of the 20th century helped solidify her place in pop culture history, making her one of the most famous people with the last name Tarita.

Genealogical research on the last name Tarita

The surname Tarita is of Italian origin and is believed to be derived from the personal name Riccari, which is a variant of the name Roderick. It is a relatively rare surname and is mostly found in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in Sicily. The name may have originated from a particular ancestor who was known for their strength or power, as the name Roderick means "famous power" in Germanic languages. Variations of the surname include Taritta and Taritti. Genealogical research on the Tarita surname may reveal ties to noble families in Italy or connections to historical figures from the region. Further research into church records, immigration documents, and historical archives may provide more insight into the origins and migration patterns of the Tarita family.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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